Tag Archives: intimate

Restaurants in New York can get very crowded and rubbing shoulders with someone can get quite literal. Asian restaurant Zenkichi, part of Williamsburg bustling restaurant scene, has found the solution: every table is a private little booth made with bamboo screens. No wonder it’s been topping every “Most Romantic Restaurant” list. You have absolute privacy while you enjoy their amazing Omakase menu and play footsie with your date. Did we mention they offer more than 50 different sakes?

Sometimes we feel that New York offers more sushi bars than you would actually be able to find in Japan. It is, however, still very hard to find a place that serves very fresh, authentic dishes in a modern setting; usually it’s one or the other. Jewel Bako might just be the place that combines both, although its East Village location is not necessarily ideal (and prices way too high for that area). Nevertheless, it’s worth the money and the trip down. “Jewel Bako” supposedly means “jewel box”, which actually describes the small intimate dining room pretty well. We highly recommend the Omakase (Chef’s tasting menu) to fully experience what this restaurant has to offer. If you like to stay in charge and choose your own items, at least try to ignore the Spicy Tuna or California Roll and go outside your comfort zone for a night; you won’t be disappointed!

Located in the heart of Italy’s Umbria region, Spoleto is often chosen as a base to explore the area. It’s a charming, quiet little city located on a hill’s slide with its own ancient Roman acquaduct. But most of all…Spoleto houses one of Umbria’s best restaurants, Il Tempio del Gusto. This family owned restaurant is small and intimate inside but also offers outdoor seating. As Umbria is known for its mushrooms, black truffles and wild game, many of the dishes at Il Tempio del Gusto contain just that. Pair it with a glass of local Sagrantino wine to fully embrace the Umbrian experience. Owner Eros Patrizi is a passionate chef and carefully prepares the tasty and beautifully presented dishes while his wife Manuella cares for her guests in the most attentive way. An evening at Il Tempio del Gusto feels warm, welcoming and will prove to be the ultimate gastronomic experience at a reasonable price. Reservations are advisable, especially during weekends and/or in summertime. Do you want to take some Il Tempio home with you? They also offer classes from the Master himself.

Even though its name is a little misleading and its location is almost impossible to find, Cookie’s is by far the most welcoming, quaint and romantic little cafe in Bruges…once you found it. Locals love to recommend this place for the great atmosphere and tasty food. The dishes are tapas-size and made with a mix of Spanish, Italian and Belgium ingredients. You can’t go wrong with these three countries! Next to that, they offer a large range of wines, whiskeys and – of course – beers. The restaurant is small and cosy and perfect for a romantic night out or dinner with friends. Avoid the restaurants on the “Markt” where most tourists get trapped; Cookie’s is within 2 minutes walking distance (but hard to find). Reserve in advance as this small place fills up quickly and make sure you get detailed directions before you go.

Number 11 is definitely the most charming place to stay in Bruges. Even though prices are a little steep for a regular Bed & breakfast, the whole experience makes it worth it. Owner and host Carine Destrooper-Deprez ensures a warm welcome, makes one hell of a breakfast and is eager to share the city’s touristic highlights with you but also recommend great local restaurants. The 17th century house is located on a quiet street in the heart of Old Bruges and everything within the city walls is within walking distance. The whole house is beautifully furnished and the three guest rooms are named after their dominating color schemes: Vanilla, Chocolate and Grey-white. Next to the comfort (with so few rooms, it’s practically your home) and romantic ambiance, everything is arranged perfectly down to the smallest detail. The generous and far-reaching hospitality of the host is what sets this Bed & Breakfast apart from any luxury hotel in the area. Fun fact: several scenes from the movie In Bruges were filmed in Number 11, and actor Colin Farrell enjoyed a three-month stay in the guesthouse while making the movie.

For a true fairytale dining experience you take your loved one(s) to Clos Maggiore. This French fantasy just off Covent Garden’s busy square serves magical food and a very very extensive wine selection. In fact, the wine list is presented in an encyclopedia-sized book that every magician would envy! Where’s the magic? – You’ll find it in the courtyard conservatory with its enchanting forest and starry sky. The crackling fire, dimmed lights and quietness create a warm and intimate atmosphere. Only bring your date here if you’re serious about him or her – this restaurant works like a love spell! Don’t forget to request for a table in the conservatory when making a reservation.

Diner at La Botte is the recipe for bringing a day in Santa Monica to a successful conclusion. It takes only a few blocks from the Santa Monica Pier and the nice beaches to reach this fine Italian restaurant. And when entering the restaurant the warm ‘Buena Sera!’-welcome by the staff will make you unable to suppress a smile. A good start is half the battle. But don’t get too relaxed. Ordering is quite the challenge. Aside from the menu, the waiter will be spending quite some time at your table telling you about all the specials. Whatever you choose, it will be delizioso. Good to know: it’s the perfect place to bring your love: all warm woods and romantic candlelight.